All posts by Alan D

20th Century Photography in 10 (and a bit) People’s Cameras

,Although practical photography dates back almost 2 centuries for much of its early days it was in the hand of the inventors, scientists and entrepreneurs. Then as now,  we loved having our photo taken. But in the 19th century that meant a trip to a expensive professional photographer.

But that was radically to change at the start of the 20th Century which would move the camera rapidly from the hands of the “professional” into ours. Continue reading 20th Century Photography in 10 (and a bit) People’s Cameras

Smarty Pants ? – The Halina Vision Smart S Review

Another year another Halina ! The smart S is one of Haking most recent recent 35mm cameras and  their site still lists the its sibling the Vision smart as an active product. But is this modern spin on cheap and cheerful any good ?
Continue reading Smarty Pants ? – The Halina Vision Smart S Review

Leica Likely ? Minolta Riva/Freedom Zoom 90c review

Most film photographers dream of owning a Leica, if even just for the Kudos. Social services got a bit upset when I tried to swap one of the weans for a mint M6 (with lens I hasten to add). But there are a few routes to owning a Leica for less financial pain. One is where this Minolta kinda comes in if you get a working ‘un Continue reading Leica Likely ? Minolta Riva/Freedom Zoom 90c review

The Car Boot £3 Classic – The Olympus XA Review

I’d never been convinced that Car boots are always work outs great for camera hunters. Sure you’ll find late AF zoom compact for the same price as you’d pay on eBay  less postage  but IMHO til then true bargains are rare and balanced by someone trying to sell a Knackered Praktica for 50 quid. All that changed when I spotted this grubby number.

How much ? Three Quid  – I didn’t stop to haggle.

Continue reading The Car Boot £3 Classic – The Olympus XA Review

Ferrania on Ferrania – Ciao Italia !

2017 has become one hell of a good year for film.  With various artisan launches and the imminent return of Ektachrome., much of the buzz has focused on not just one but 2 films  hailing from Ferrania’s plant. What better way to test them out than shooting on a Vintage Ferrania Camera !! Continue reading Ferrania on Ferrania – Ciao Italia !